#sorachi missed out on that but he made up for it with good writing

[courtesanofdeath]

actually props to gege for giving maki some nice defined arms. i just think shonen series should make more muscular women

[shirokokuro]

hiyya, i'm hopping in to ask, just for fun! what happen to be your favourite gintama episodes?

Oooooh, thank you! I'm honestly a sucker for all the serious arcs, especially the soul-crushing Shouyou-sensei ones. In terms of episodes I like the most, it'd have to be the ones surrounding the Takasugi-Gintoki fight (ShoukaSonjukuFlashbackEpisode ShoukaSonjukuFlashbackEpisodeShoukaSonjukuFlashba--), the Smallyou-Dadtoki travel episode, Oboro's backstory, and the Red Spider Arc.

That being said, my favorite episode in all of Gintama, the one I've rewatched countless times, would be Episode 39, oddly enough!

If you clicked the "Keep Reading" bar, you better buckle up, buttercups, because I have to vent about why this episode is my favorite in exhaustive detail. Firefox crashed on me (...again) and deleted half of my rant, so at this point, I'm fueled by caffeinated vengeance to have my tiny opinion heard.

Context: I started watching Gintama around my senior year of high school. Being the Bakumatsu Era nutcase that I am, I figured I'd give it a whirl to see what all the hubbub was about. And if I'm completely honest? My fall into the show was less than graceful: I almost dropped it on numerous occasions at the start, the humor being hit-or-miss for me, and the darker undertones frequently left me nonplussed; it felt like a story that didn't quite know what it wanted to be yet, and reading some of his comments, it's clear Sorachi was still gaining confidence as an author. (To this day, I'm so proud of him and impressed by his willingness to write a story with such hopeful themes about life! I stan the gorilla man.)

So, high-school me came into episode 39 struggling to wrap my brain around how to define Gintama. AND THIS EPISODE--

THIS EPISODE!!

This tiny, cute, one-shot episode that involves basically NONE of the main cast is what made me keep clicking to see what was next. Having a bad day? I come back to this episode. Having a good day? Come back to this episode. Not sure what to watch? THIS. EPISODE.

HONEY, I'M ABOUT TO TELL YOU WHY.

This episode combines all the elements that compose Gintama. It's everything Sorachi did well thematically, comically, contextually, tonally, and then some. Let's go through the list of what all this episode got so wonderfully right and see what we learn.

For one, the humor for this was ON POINT. That part where Ikumatsu's in-law is trying to get to the bathroom after being snuck the laxatives and Katsura's there like (^3^)~<3

(I CANNOT! The delivery of that "Haiteimasu~" kills me every dang time.) Broke Elizabeth is also so great and holds up the humor for Katsura so that he can have his character study episode without needing to be the comic relief.

For the POVs, episode 39 cycles between broke Elizabeth, Okita/the Shinsengumi manhunt, and Katsura's POVs wonderfully. Elizabeth is the comedic backbone, the manhunt keeps the stakes high, and Ikumatsu's in-laws causing trouble provides another element of tension. AND ON TOP OF THAT? YOU WANNA KNOW WHAT SORACHI DID? YOU WANNA KNOW? HE ADDED A THIRD TENSION ELEMENT 8 MINUTES TOWARD THE END. That's right! Ikumatsu's husband being killed by people who align themselves with the Joui faction makes Katsura complicit in his murder. Is Ikumatsu going to find out? Does she already have her suspicions? Is she going to betray him, and how is that information going to change Katsura's view of his group?

Let me outline that quickly.

1) Shinsengumi Manhunt

2) In-laws wanting Ikumatsu's money

3) Ikumatsu's disdain for Joui patriots when Katsura secretly is one

That's a lot to balance, and in terms of trajectory, it's clear there's going to be an altercation by the end; we watch Katsura's undercover life while knowing that it won't last. That, my friends, is great writing. We as the audience know a storm's brewing but can't yet anticipate the fallout.

There's one more, very important part of the story direction for this episode that makes it my favorite, and that is the relationship between Katsura and Ikumatsu. It's clearly got some romantic coding, but it doesn't fall into the pitfall of making the two of them their entire lives: Katsura's goal is still very much associated with improving the country, and Ikumatsu is content with making a name for her ramen shop whether Katsura is there or not. They're two characters with different trajectories who happen to have a little bit of wink-wink-nudge-nudge going on between them. It's refreshing that the core of their dynamic isn't their attraction and instead is more the respect they have for one another. Katsura listens to her opinions and values them, and Ikumatsu shelters him when he has nowhere left to turn. It's sweet, even in a platonic sense, and I love that. And THAT'S NOT THE BEST PART AJAJAJAJAJA.

Ikumatsu's relationship with her husband is tied to ramen, right? It's her whole life, her whole profession. Katsura is different in that he explicitly states he prefers soba. By the end of the episode, what does Ikumatsu do, huh? What does she add to the menu, huh?

(Soba. It's soba. She makes room for Katsura soba in the midst of all the ramen.)

Another element of this episode that is so stellar is the dialogue. So many times, the characters talk around their feelings and intentions. (Heck, they have a whole scene of Katsura quoting proverbs and pussyfooting around the topic he really wants to discuss.) What the characters say is vague enough to feel skittish and realistic while also being transparent enough for the audience to understand what they truly want to voice. Katsura not wanting to go outside because of the cops is a great example, and it happens twice:

There are a lot of these throughout this episode, even in the serious parts when they talk about Ikumatsu's ramen missing something or when Katsura admits that Ikumatsu makes him question himself without elaborating on what exactly he means by that.

In the same vein, another element that bolsters the story is the use of framing. Gintama is pretty strong with this all around, but this episode really stuck out to me. We can see Katsura is taking Ikumatsu's opinion to heart by the way they frame his eyes here:

He can't bring himself to look at Ikumatsu after the reveal of her husband's murder. His eyes are down, focused but conflicted. Even more than that, we don't see the entirety of Katsura's expression for the rest of the conversation, only one more shot of his face in profile angled from behind. It sets up his later statement about Ikumatsu making him question himself without him needing to elaborate.

In this same scene, we also see a camera shift when the ice cubes clatter the moment Ikumatsu reveals rebels killed her husband. It does a great job of underscoring Katsura's shock.

This ice cube shot, to me, was so gutsy. It shows Sorachi and the story-boarders believed in the drama enough to focus on something small in a moment of stress. It's symbolic of the wavering in Katsura's faith, not entirely crumbling but definitely unsteady, and if you do that beat wrong, it's going to come off as tacky or just plain confusing like that person who recorded a cockroach at the Tokyo Olympics. Here, Sorachi filmed the cockroach and it paid dividends. This dang ice cube shot was what earned my trust that Gintama was going to go somewhere if I just stuck it out. It was artsy. It was classy. 10/10.

They do it earlier in the episode as well after Ikumatsu slaps her brother-in-law. She turns around, obviously on the verge of crying, but instead of showing you her expression right away, you see the back of her head and a shot of the dripping faucet, a euphemism for tears.

Let's move on to the philosophical conflict of this episode. Mainly, it's a look into Katsura, setting aside his comedic traits to explore what being a revolutionary means to him. Living with Ikumatsu, he's allowed to see how commoners view his faction, and it's not seen highly. People have used his banner to bully, blackmail, and murder, spiraling into Ikumatsu--a person he cares about and admires--losing the love of her life. How can Katsura reconcile that with himself? He's had such lofty goals of changing the country, particularly with how Shouyou-sensei died, a man who to Katsura at that point was merely an innocent person killed by a flawed system. But now, Katsura's own organization is being corrupted to do the exact same. As Ikumatsu points out, how can patriots change anything if they can't even protect the people around them?

Look closely at that line for a moment. Sounds familiar, doesn't it?

Gintoki's voiced the same opinion--verbatim--multiple times. It's one of the key themes of Gintama: community, family, friendship. They may not be as noble of pursuits as Katsura's revolution, but in Gintama, cherishing the people near you is the recipe for a good life.

Ikumatsu is parallel to Gintoki in that way. She has her wounds, her reasons not to open herself up again, but she perseveres and is willing to be kind to Katsura despite knowing all along who he was affiliated with. (Bonus points for them writing Ikumatsu as a smart cookie. I like the selflessness of her knowing and still being willing to hide him).

Because of her parallel with Gintoki, it's hard to say who made the greatest impression on him, but through the rest of the series, Katsura does muse about that topic from time to time, like in the Benizakura arc:

Katsura is a lot more solitary than Gintoki is, straitlaced and noble, and he has big aspirations for what the world can be. Life with Ikumatsu showed him a smaller mindset (a "what could've been", I suppose) as well as reminded him what he fights for in the first place: a better world for the people in front of him. Ikumatsu, on the other hand, is given the companionship of someone like her husband one last time and closure about the rebel movement. The both of them part ways with respect and a thank you.

It's a sweet, compact story that artfully showcases the core of what makes Gintama Gintama. I adore it.

[bossladytae]

Major Gintama spoilers ahead. Decided to share my thoughts since I feel people are missing the point on why some of us are not happy with the current developments, especially when we are looking at the bigger picture, not just a snapshot. A few folks have already and wonderfully articulated their thoughts that I agree with, so this is my two cents to add. No one has to agree with me. I’ve been a Gintama fan for a very, very long time. I will always love this series, but no series is perfect, and having a different viewpoint about the present events does not make me or anyone else less of a fan.

Death in general always brings a mixture of emotions, and people are allowed to mourn, to question, to do what they need to do in order to process somebody’s last farewell (just don’t harass people if they feel differently than you do). You are not required to be 100% positive or negative about the story’s progression. Different opinions on this chapter can and do exist. I’m sharing mine only because I want to clear up some misconceptions about why those of us with the same thoughts feel as we do.

We are not necessarily unhappy that Takasugi died (although this does not make us jump for joy, either). We were prepared to accept Takasugi living or dying, depending on the manner in which either fate was carried out. Indeed, his death mirrors history with the real Takasugi also dying young. His death brings to mind Gintoki’s words to Oboro: “Be it killing him or protecting him, they’re both my job.” Takasugi’s death has been foreshadowed more than once, particularly with his first appearance post-time skip and the revelation of borrowed time, so it’s not a surprise when it’s been quite apparent. We know this. Lastly, some of us, like myself, are fine with the death scene itself (Takasugi dying in Gintoki’s arms) because it was beautifully done.

We’re unhappy that the final arc post-time skip consisted of rehashed events that have already taken place multiple times (even in a movie). We’re unhappy that Katsura, who originally said, “I can’t let you cut down your master again,” is denied the chance to be present for these final moments when he’s also a student of Shouka Sonjuku, having experienced the same loss. We’re unhappy that Matako and Henpeita – who have now lost more of their closest comrades – were denied the chance to fight alongside Takasugi just as everyone else was allowed to rush forward and fight with Gintoki. We’re unhappy that Shouyou had to be reminded once again that he could not save a single one of his cherished students. We’re unhappy that Takasugi had to stab himself again, compounding his trauma, as if Utsuro bringing him to the brink of death countless times was not enough. We’re unhappy that in a cruel and twisted way, Gintoki saves his teacher but loses his friend, whom he had already protected multiple times, body and soul. We’re unhappy that Gintoki is reliving that choice, that pain—again, and again, and again.

No, happiness doesn’t always prevail in life. Everyone knows this. But we’re talking about a fictional story whose final arc is one we feel could’ve been set up differently. And there is nothing wrong with expressing a variety of opinions about it.

I’m not a fan of endless tragedy and violence with little to no substance. To me, it felt like Takasugi had become a vehicle for violence. “How much more can I shock the audience and get away with it?” That’s the impression I received. Consequently, these last few chapters have come off as rather uninspired to me, especially when several pages were centered on everyone simply running around or running after people, and repeating the same one-liners and sentiments they have expressed countless times already. It’s not as if we’ve forgotten or have never seen how much the cast cares for one another. Gintama’s past arcs have given us high standards already, so we had different expectations for the finale.

This is partly why I wasn’t fully on board with Nobu Nobu’s death, even though his death flag was obvious, too. It felt like the easy way out, because then he wouldn’t live on to deal with the consequences of his actions, wouldn’t have to work hard to change what he had caused. It’s harder to live on with such a burden, to find a new path in life, and to earn back people’s respect and trust, but how much greater a message that would’ve been. Killing off your antagonists immediately after redeeming them also has the risk of becoming a cliché as much as surviving does.

However, I accepted it because even though Gintama isn’t mirroring history detail for detail (for one thing, Okita would’ve died instead of his sister), it still does with the passing of the Edo to Meiji era, Amanto parallels with the Perry Expedition, the end of the Tokugawa Shogunate, the Western influences, and more. Nobu Nobu’s death and the rise of a new government within Gintama’s world made that much clear.

It can also be said that chapter 703 emphasizes the fact that you can still move on after a great loss. But, as far as lessons go, we have already learned this through Shige Shige’s death with little time spent on the fact that Zenzou had to kill a friend to save a friend, and lost that friend in the end, anyway. Yet, he returned to assist in the battle against Utsuro. Zenzou has exemplified moving on from a terrible tragedy; we have seen the lesson in action already, and, truly, Zenzou has amazing inner strength. I was sad that Shige Shige had to die after all that because he is a good man, but I liked the plot and character development his death resulted in.

Takasugi had his redemption already, and his entire story arc was well done and even his death is memorable, as redundant as the circumstances turned out to be, but I would expect nothing less, for he deserves to go out with a bang. He has directly and indirectly caused many deaths as much as any other antagonist in the story, but he has also saved many lives through his later actions. Had he lived, I wouldn’t expect him to feel he must spend the rest of his life atoning for his actions, because he did not see himself on the “wrong side” so much as he did the government. Politics is a complex matter, which is why Gintama has always focused on one’s reaction to their circumstances and polishing their soul to silver, not whether they’re politically right or wrong.

Rather, if chosen to survive, I think Takasugi would have tried to find his own way to live in the new world while being a product of the old one. Yes, he held onto his grief and rage for far too long, but he was also driven to change or destroy all the obstacles in his way. Shogun Assassination and Rakuyou arcs showed him renewed by the end. He would have found his way again, just as Shouyou once told him he was capable of doing. And it would’ve been a nice change from dying right after you reconcile with your family or friends. It would’ve been an inspiration for those that live on with great burdens in their past, but can now look forward to a future for once after believing there was no more hope for them in their traumatic lives.

As for living on borrowed time, I’d also hoped that Takasugi would be able to die on his own terms away from the public eye, sharing one last drink with Gintoki, Katsura, Sakamoto, and even Matako and Henpeita. If Sorachi really couldn’t think of anything else to do with him (or the Kiheitai, for that matter) except to kill him off, then at least give Takasugi some final moments of peace with his friends before exiting this world, just like other characters received (whether they died or departed the city). But he was not granted that. Instead, he was subjected to one violent attack after another, used to deliver another fatal injury to himself and cause his teacher more sorrow, and then, finally, cut down by one of his dearest friends. For me, it was nothing but senseless bloodshed.

After reading this convoluted-to-the-utmost-degree finale, I can appreciate that Takasugi at least could die within Gintoki’s arms. It continually reaffirms my belief that Gintoki and Takasugi’s relationship is unbreakable. They know each other so well—too well, perhaps, which is why they were so readily annoyed with one another, too. Gintoki called him “my other self.” Takasugi admitted that hurting Gintoki hurts him more than anything else. They were the original pair of rivals from the beginning. They entrusted earth and space battles to one another, needing no explanation. Gintoki knew Takasugi would come back; Takasugi knew Gintoki would come through in the end. No one understands one another better than they do (except I would venture to include Katsura, and Sakamoto on some level, as one who had met them after Shouyou’s initial capture).

Gintoki wielding both their swords to deliver the final blow to Utsuro, who kept trying to destroy Gintoki while in the throes of death thanks to Takasugi, is a nice touch. Gintoki saying that not even death will break their bond is a lovely sentiment. Takasugi protecting Gintoki in return and paying the ultimate price moves my soul. Takasugi making a joke about his height is well within the spirit of the story. Gintoki saying, “We might have just been born under that star,” makes me smile. Takasugi wanting Gintoki’s smile as his last sight of this world, and Gintoki struggling to keep his tears in check until after Takasugi has left him, breaks my heart.

I’m fine with all of that.

I simply lament the fact that the path leading to the finale, to Takasugi’s death, was not all that I’d expected. I can only hope that like Shige Shige, Takasugi’s death will challenge and change status quo somehow. It has to because it’s such a significant event.

I have issues with the narrative as a whole since Rakuyou arc, but that’ll be too long to get into right now, and I don’t have any desire to write out my thoughts at this point (not enough time, anyway). One of them in a nutshell is this idea that you can’t move on unless your cherished ones return. Sometimes you don’t know when they will and sometimes they don’t. If you’ve built your life around the condition that those people are always there, then you may not have the strength to stand on your own two feet when you have to tackle something on your own. I feel it contradicts one of Gintama’s lessons about building up your inner strength – your soul – so that you can still move forward, even if you must walk alone. Solely relying on others for your happiness, solely making others responsible for your happiness, is not that healthy, in my opinion.

I think Tae and Tsukuyo showed a healthier way of moving forward while hoping for others to return or reunite. They became/resumed being leaders and businesswomen; they reacted to their circumstances and proceeded accordingly with what they felt was best. For Sacchan, Sorachi relied on an old gag; for Kyuubei, Sorachi placed them in a marriage interview situation, as if he couldn’t think of what else to do with them. In the end, Tae was worried for Shinpachi being unable to move on, and Tsukuyo was the one who reassured everyone that Gintoki would eventually come back, and that they would all see him again. Not even Katsura believed that Gintoki had somehow become an enemy of the world; he has always trusted that Gintoki would be on a sure path because Gintoki told him, “If you've got time to fantasize about a beautiful death, why not live beautifully until the end?” So it was strange to me when others expressed their doubts in thinking they’d have to fight Gintoki in order to protect the world.

But, I digress, and I will stop before I lose sight of my original purpose for this post.

Everything that has inspired me before Silver Soul arc will remain. I still think Gintama is one of the best shounen series to date with its myriad of ways to stand out from the rest. Sadly, it just fell short of my expectations at the end, becoming more like a generic shounen story. I don’t know if Sorachi is burnt out; or if his editor(s) were pressuring him to write a certain way; or if he had written himself into corner and this is the result of him trying to get out in a believable way. He has redrawn things before and has admitted he has forgotten details or story elements in the past. It happens to the best of us, and only he knows how his internal process works. Clearly, he’s still trying to end things in the best way he can with what he already presented chapters ago. No one is faulting him for that. It’s not the same as critiquing a story’s entirety on its own.

I will accept Gintama’s impending conclusion, but as I have stated many times in the past, you are always free to question, to challenge, and to even affirm canon material of any text with your opinions. Everyone thinks and feels differently. That is why we study literature; that is why we love stories. I’m eternally thankful to Sorachi for creating Gintama. I will always treasure this series.

I will never forget that Takasugi Shinsuke gave his life for a world he was intent on destroying—and, really, he did destroy it so that it could be renewed. And I hope none of the cast forgets, either.

[claymorecut]

Journey of a shipper: Kontae and how I fell for this ship?

OKAY! SO I'M FINALLY DOING THIS. Writing a long ass meta about this ship because hell, I love them and this ship is beautiful and I just need more content for this ship, so I'm making some myself! Before I start, it's just my opinion and I don't mean to offend anybody and second, I'm not a great analyst. I'm just going to ramble about stuff here and it's pretty long. So, enjoy!

I remember making this post about gintama ships back when I first started watching Gintama and I remember mentioning Kontae there. The sweet and kind guy falls for the hard-core and strong willed woman. A ship dynamic I really love. And their interactions, so damn funny I can't even say! And the 10 years gap didn't look like a big issue to me; they are both adults so I was okay with it. This ship looked funny to me, Kondou blushing, asking her to marry him, butt hair and all xD but also made me feel like "it may not get too far". But Idk why, I decided to stick with it. Because i was just so much in love with Kondou and Otae's characters. But in between all that, I really didn't see any kind of romance happening between these two and I was like maybe in an AU, they'd make a really good couple. It's not happening in Gintama 'cause I really don't see any kind of romance happening in this universe (and yet, I continued shipping xD)

But, I was wrong.

When the Yagyuu arc came and I watched episode 81. And my faith in this ship was restored. I know there were some ship-tease moments for gintae in the benizakura arc and the yagyuu arc but then this scene came:

I know, I know, it wasn't literal but what if it was? Well, that's not the question here. I was pretty surprised to hear this myself. Gintoki saying "She'll make it up to him" and Hijikata saying "She loves him. She's just playing hard to get" and all then Otae comes and saves Kondou from his Gorilla marriage. I got the verdict here tho. Maybe it was just for comedic purpose, maybe not. But still, it was enough for me to continue shipping them coz they looked hella cute and I just thought I'd just stick to it. Maybe, I'm gonna find something big soon. I found other ships like Hijimitsu and Gintsu! But that's a topic for another day.

AND, YES. I DID!

The pool arc came, which is like ep 217 and yes, nothing huge happened but remember how Gintoki was a making fun of Otae's breasts and how he wasn't interested in looking at her flat chest but Kondou, who was, like always, stalking her, then says he's ready to explore every part of her to find the nipple xD and Otae just punches him. Yeah that was funny. And then Tae later again comments that she can see right through Gintoki's actions and Gintoki retorts again by saying that he's not interested in her camel toe. Then this scene happens:

Kondou says he has no interest in camel toe and Tae again punches him while yelling "YOU DON'T?!"

Weird, right?

I know, it was weird for me too! But what can I say, these short details were what made me feel like maybe, JUST MAYBE, Tae has a thing for Kondou. Just look how offended she is. I know Kondou didn't mean to disrespect her neither was he rejecting her but I think Tae feels like he is. And so she goes like "what do u mean u don't?! Don't you love me!?" Even if it was just a sexual reference, it made me think that maybe, Hijikata was right. She does try to play hard and that there is something.

Then came the love choriss arc and I got a major hint.

How Sayaka-chan was Kondou's virtual girlfriend and how he introduced her to everyone in the Shimura residence. Yup then this happens.

This was stupid and weird and funny and my Kontae heart screamed "YER JEALOUS TAE!"

Just look at her going all dramatic while getting worried about Shinpachi. Well, of course she'll be worried about Shinpachi's well being and how her brother is just drowing into his own virtual world but Why. Throw. Kondou's. Game? If she really doesn't feel anything for him then there's no reason for her to throw Kondou's game. Why not let him stay in his own virtual world with his own virtual girlfriend? What were you planning, Sorachi-sama?

It was the very first time when it looked very evident to me that Tae has something for Kondou deep inside. That whole dramatic scream "THIS CAN'T BE!" just after Kondou introduced Sayaka-chan. I listened to that dialogue very closely and it first started with Kondo introducing her then Gintoki saying something like you're in this shit too? And soon was followed by Tae's dramatic "this can't be! Is Shin-chan going to be like this too!?" while throwing Kondou's game out and Kondou screaming "Sayaka-chan!!"

Tae's jealousy is still a mystery here but I still feel like, somewhere she was.

Moving on!

They went out on a date, which was a disaster and then alongside Kyubei in the Beam Saber arc, how Kondou fought for Otae I started to feel a lot more from Kondou's side. Yes. The stalking is a running gag but Kondou's feelings were given more comedic effect rather than highlighting it in a very serious tone. But that's how Sensei does his work. Gintama is supposed to be funny and this ship is supposed to be funny and I really wasn't expecting any intense and serious Kontae moment in the series.

Well, Sorachi-sama proved me wrong. AND I THANK HIM SO, SO VERY MUCH!

The Genderbender arc came, Kyubei is now this handsome hunk and Tae is blushing furiously and Kondou is this blond bombshell which is his too good! It's been shown over and over again that even if Kondou is a stalker, he just wants to see Otae happy. That's what he always wanted even if he isn't the reason for her happiness. When Jyubei and Tae starts meeting frequently, Kondou comes and encourages Jyubei to stop worrying about other and enjoy himself with Tae. He even says that he's happy with just being her friend and I think this proves how much he cares for her. He gives them those movie tickets telling he actually wanted to ask her out but now that he's like this, can't be with her like the way he always wanted to and now Jyubei is the only one who can take care of her. He was genuinely hurting but what matters most to him is Otae and so he leaves them while saying "if you make her cry, I'll arrest you". Even Kyubei later mentions it that it was him who was hurting and crying and he just happily sacrificed Otae so that she can be happy.

Then came the roach motel arc and OTAE WEARS THE KIMONO THAT KONDOU GAVE! Yes, not in the episode but in opening 15 she does and even in the manga cover! Ah..the feels. Well, coming back to the point, this episode was basically everybody bullying Kondou but the good part here was the ending of this episode. Kondou knowing that he was getting bullied and that Tae was a part of all this but he still says "that's how Otae-san is. This is what makes her, her." That was beautiful; he accepts her for who she is. He knows that she's brash and manipulative and even abusive but she's also kind and strong and beautiful; even after all her flaws he still continues to accept and love her. That's true love. And then comes Otae's part. She slowly starts to learn more and more about him, I think she knew he wasn't stalking her. And then she finally admits that she actually had fun with Kondou and that she got to see a new side of him while hugging that roach mask. She was happy to discover a new side of him, no stalking attached. I was so amazed to see this happening coz like I said, I wasn't expecting all these serious Kontae moments but these were actually happening. It was a breath of fresh air and I was really happy to see a developed relationship between these two characters which just made me ship them even more.

Then comes the love incense arc which was just....bizarre. What was Sensei thinking while writing this arc? Why would you do that to my poor kokoro!? But whatever, nothing is properly explained here, everybody is falling in love with everybody, Kondou turns gay, Gintoki just loses his senses and is sleeping with practically everybody, Tsukuyo's feelings for Gintoki starts to go havoc. But then, Tae and Kyubei comes in the picture. And they're in love with Gintoki too. But then, things change. Take turns out to be in love with Kondou! Hell, she was actually JEALOUS! Yes, it was the love incense and yes, this arc is just too crazy to explain anything properly but hear me out. What if, the love incense actually triggered some of Tae's hidden feelings for Kondou? Just like Tsukuyo's. Coz she actually saw Gintoki's dick first when she inhaled that smoke. Not him. But she ended up discovering her own feelings towards him. So what if this was the same case with Tae? We all saw that she was under the effect of that drug and was in love with Gintoki so Sensei, why this change of plans?

No answers, right? I don't have them either. It's just the little theory I came up with. What was Tae's real feelings? But soon the Shogun Assassination and the Farwell Shinsengumi arcs are followed after this.

And GOOD LORD! Sensei actually proved me wrong! By giving one of the most beautifully written scenes between these two characters.

It isn't always when Sorachi-sama actually decides to go for the romantic plot but in Kontae's case, I felt like he actually hinted a LOT. The very first ship in Gintama where I felt like no, this isn't just one-sided but actually, feelings were shown from both the sides, especially Tae. Like everyone, she misses him. But Tae remembering him like this and crying when she's about to get her neck slashed:

"A real man, a real samurai would never do something like this. That man, would never do something like this."

She knows him, she knows what kind of a man Kondou really is. And even at a time like this, Kondou is the man who comes in her mind. A true man, true police, a true samurai who not for once tried to force himself upon her. Not for once showed any kind of disgrace towards any other people or her. All this time, she comes to learn more and more about him and you know, it was worth the time.

Even Shinpachi sees it.

"I'll bring that man, and everyone, back to you for sure. So wait for us with the same old smile on your face, Sis."

Why exclude him from everybody? There has a meaning behind this and a deep one and tbh, I see a romantic meaning behind this. Shinpachi addressing Kondou like this, it was new. It's not always when Sensei uses such points to evoke a romantic gesture but when he does, it sure leaves an impact.

And this is not the last time he used such implications for KonTae. Fast forward to ep 316, Tae is at Kozenigata's place and she's now leaving. Haji and Konzenigata both tries to stop her because it was dangerous outside and the police organisation isn't working properly and she replies,

"That's exactly why police need to go back to their jobs, and cabaret girls have to go back to their job."

It's like foreshadowing their relationship- the police and the cabaret girl. And then Kozenigata just simply puts a cherry on top.

"They must have come back. Her police."

And Kondou pops out of that dustbin!

FREAKIN' POETIC CINEMA!

And then come the dialogues.

"Don't you think it's high time you stop doing this....You'll catch a cold."

"Why did you have to say that out of all days? I wish you had acted like always, called me a perverted stalker and hit me like you always do. You're....making it hard to say goodbye."

The voice acting, the dialogues, the animation, honestly everything screams romantic here. And yeah, the close-up happy-sad faces, if you've seen/read romantic anime/manga, you should know it's a shoujo trope used to display romantic feelings between two characters. And if I'm just making speculations, they're sharing the same umbrella...

Two people, especially a man and a woman, sharing an umbrella in rain is considered as a symbol of romance in Japan.

This kinda proves that romance is present in this scene.

And then finally this.

ANOTHER SHOUJO TROPE. THE CLOSE-UP EYES!

These eyes literally says it all. It's like Tae saying I'll wait for you and when you come back, I'll happily welcome you and then we can go back to those old days. Just like how Shinpachi said.

And I think, this is the very first and the only time, Sensei used this gesture. And this is just too much for me to not ignore it!

The way Kondou looks at Tae while talking to her, it almost feels like he's telling her to not look so sad. Like I've mentioned before, Kondou wants to see her smile. And i think, in this scene it's crushing for him to see her with such a sad smile on her face. That is the last thing he wants to see. That's why he said he wanted to see her react the way she always did. And Tae not acting like that and instead showing such emotions towards him, it's too overwhelming. Just think how Kondou would be feeling there. Tae seeing him off, her eyes glistening while she sees him walk away but also waits for his arrival in the near future, its simply poetic.

The reunion between these two is as funny as ever, Kontae was back in its own color. When Okita said Kondou was always okay with their usual type of setting, he meant to say that Kondou was happy in those old days. That's what he said in the FS arc, he wanted to see her in her usual self, no sad face, no crying, just a happy Otae who loves to beat the crap outta him but also respects him. Things really were pretty intense in the SA and FS arcs but I don't think Sensei wanted to continue this for long. It was like Sensei saying, we're back to the old days, happy days. The Silver Soul arc and the ongoing arc isn't as intense as these two arcs and that's what Sensei wants to say "we're back to those good ol' day". But that doesn't mean he threw away all those meaningful moments between these two; it was so heavily implied. Just because of a troll scene, one cannot disregard the whole development and say "it was never there" because of course there was something which was very much visible to the viewers/readers, even if it isn't present now doesn't mean it was all a joke or just some i-just-wrote-it-but-now-it-doesnt-mean-anything bullshit. Yeah, the ship isn't canon but that also doesn't mean it sank. I mean, Kondou is not gonna marry that gorilla anymore so....

Imo, KonTae is the only ship in Gintama where romantic feelings are implied from both the sides. It really didnt look unrequited. It's not only Kondou or Tae, it's both of them and both of them have actually shown interest in each other in a way which I won't say is completely ambiguous. The FS arc was the part where it is shown how far their relationship has come and how they have come to learn and respect each other, maybe even love each other. I'm not forcing these ideas on anybody, these are facts and I'm sure even non-shippers must have noticed these moments as well. Honestly, the romantic implications were heavy here, the scenes, the dialogues, the "Take care" which is just too beautiful to not to be ignored. Even if I don't see canon pairings happening here, I still somehow hope for this ship.

My love for Gintsu is eternal but Kontae, this is the only ship where I feel like has come a lot far. And even other characters have mentioned their relationship and in a serious note. Check all those subtle hints, pick up the whole FS arc, it's there. A relationship that started with a gag but now is fully developed where I can see loads of potential. It's a ship that's been here from the very beginning of the series and it didn't look rushed at all. Another universe of how I met your mother lol.

People can ship whatever they like and I'm really not trying to push my thoughts onto anybody here.

But KonTae, this ship is no gag or joke and it deserves more love.

It's stupid, it's hilarious, it's beautiful and it's properly developed and that's why I fell for this ship so hard.

[gintamajustaway]

Gintama seems to be coming to a close, what do you think of how things are going Aero?

Ooof – good question… I’m enjoying the journey. Like, anyone that has been following for any extended period of time knows that I don’t feed into negativity and I don’t hate on anything. Sorachi is writing an interesting story, the proof of that is that I’m still reading it and following it even though it has changed platforms twice now. I’m going to put some things underneath the cut, so spoiler alert to anyone that isn’t caught up!

For me, personally, the Utsuro/Shouyou thing ran its course a long time ago and what’s happening with Takasugi came as no surprise, I suspected something of this nature as soon as the whole blood thing came about. I don’t mind the way Sorachi is writing the story, I’m just less emotional over it all than I used to be. I obviously still love it, don’t get me wrong! 

Being completely honest, I think the reason the way the ending is going right now is missing the mark with me slightly because of Be Forever Yorozuya. That movie script was written by Sorachi as kind of a “quick fix” to end Gintama. He created it because the anime was coming to an end at that time and so he made something to kind of quickly wrap a lot of things up that would also somewhat mirror the true ending he had planned at that time. The whole thing was so well written and beautiful. Time travel is usually a huge mistake in media because it leaves too many holes and while there were still holes in Be Forever Yorozuya, they were minuscule enough to be overlooked. The younger Joui coming to save the day, young Joui Gintoki seeing such a bright future for himself, Gintoki willing to go back in time to kill himself to save people, everyone going after him and showing him how much he’s loved and pounding into his head that the future wouldn’t be right without him, etc etc etc. There are a lot of things missing in the movie, like Kamui’s storyline ((which really fell flat to me after so much buildup)), and Takasugi’s whole thing, but what I’m getting at is that had the concept of the movie been extended to deal with all the things leftover in the manga, that would have created something so badass. 

I guess what I’m saying here is that Be Forever Yorozuya was so fucking good and well thought out, that the things happening in the manga right now are being overshadowed by it in my mind. That movie was so mind blowing and emotional that I expected this true ending to be even more so, but it’s falling short. It’s not bad, I can’t reiterate that enough because I’m still enjoying it, but there are several elements that have me tilting my head wondering why Sorachi went that route ((for example, Kamui and Takasugi’s conclusions to their arcs honestly baffles me for how anticlimactic they were after so long)). I still trust Sorachi though and I’ll continue to support him until the end. 

[sparda3g]

Gintama Chapter 699 Review

After 10,000 years, this series is free. It’s time to conquer Earth! But seriously, it felt like it has been years since we last have a new Gintama chapter. The last one wasn’t truly the final chapter, but only final to be released in Weekly Shounen Jump. Today, Sorachi is on a mission to finish the series for good with a proper sendoff. What way to make a comeback than delivering a chapter that define Gintama perfectly; hysterical parody, emotional driven characters, and action-packed ride with a gut-wrenching cliffhanger.

By the time you see the color spread, you’ll know we’re off with a great start with Silver Ball Z. It’s remarkable how accurate Sorachi captured the visual work of Toriyama. From the character’s angle to design, it’s well deserved achievement to capture the sensation. Kondo didn’t need alteration though; he’s already a gorilla, so only the style has changed. To make the parody even better, the good portion of the beginning is a recap done in Dragon Ball style.

This is one of the best “previously on” segment that I have ever seen. It’s quite brilliant to take advantage of switching from one magazine to another and start off with a recap to remind the fans what happened while have a good laugh. It’s not only the artstyle that has changed, but even the narration reflects the same way how Dragon Ball has done in the past. All it was missing was the soundtrack. It is gold, or silver, however you want to call this moment. I laughed so hard at Katsura designed as Yamucha, and Takasugi designed as Vegeta. Strangely enough, it captured their character too well. Before the chapter truly begins, Katsura strikes Gintoki with Wolf Fang Fist.

The comedy doesn’t focus only on Dragon Ball parody, but also on Sorachi himself. Apparently, because of more time and switch to Jump Giga, Sorachi is now putting effort to his work with great quality of art, even if it does resort to Dragon Ball. Oddly enough, this seems to be low-key true to other Mangaka, but I digress. Hilarious that Katsura buries Yamucha by calling it a loser role. Rest in Peace, Yamucha. The best part is the ending of the parody. I seriously think Sorachi believes all of it.

Now that Gintama is in another magazine, Gintoki has nothing to worry about. No more worries about One Piece overshadowing him and no more worries about the rising suns that are Black Clover, My Hero Academia, and Haikyuu!!! to overshadow him. He can now overrun the world of Jump Giga, starting with Akira Toriyama’s power. So much so, he pulls the exact same ending shot from Dragon Ball. That is pure gold. Could you imagine if the series did end the same way? We’re going to need Gintama Super then. Takasugi brings the scene back to reality with Galick Gun. Oh how I missed this series.

He does have a point though. If there were silver balls, why bother planning this ambush in the first place? There wouldn’t be any need to sacrifice and nothing will be at stake. Well, thank goodness, it doesn’t exist. We can’t ruin the excitement now. Of course, what Sorachi does best is to segue to a more serious matter from a gag. It’s true with silver balls, life would be much easier on them, but Takasugi has no regrets. He’s thankful that they made it this far with their own hands; no tricks, no magic, just pure talent. All thanks to Shouyo. This is the type of writing I missed from this series. From there on, it’s all action-packed with many things to offer.

I assume with all the time Sorachi has with Jump Giga, he has enough energy to add plenty of details and sequences to the action scenes without wasting so much spaces. Unlike Boruto, it uses the panels wisely for tension and suspense. It’s why the action starts with a bang, literally and figuratively. It’s the Disciples against the cult followers. That panel with all three kicking asses while feeling the excitement is great. Thankfully, it’s not all of the story that was being told here.

Although they reached to the Altana Terminal, the ship that crashed is absorbing the altana. That means Shouyo’s body is absorbing it and soon, Tendoshu will gain a new way for their immortality plan. This does raise the tension higher, now that we establish that they’re on a ticking time bomb. They have to rush all the way up there and when you look at the scene, it’s incredibly difficult. It’s baffling how much people truly desired for immortality this badly. That’s where we receive a really heartfelt moment during the heated action.

While the action goes on as it becomes intense, Katsura begins a heartfelt speech that is shared with others that ties in the morale of immortality and cherish the life you’re given. Even if they were to die, he will have no regrets. It’s hard to say if their reunion was joy or sorrow, but it’s certain if one outlives another, it would be impossible to find another person like them. They have ups and downs, trying to kill each other. Despite all of the troubles, their bonds can’t be severed. It’s the bond that’s worth limiting to. Honestly, I can’t do it justice without the mention of its sequences.

The reason why this was so heartfelt isn’t just because we know their friendship is truly one of the kind or how well-written the dialogue is. It’s the action set piece that drives the emotion home with great sincerity. Not only it was entertaining, but you can grasp the words’ meaning at its best, leaving you feeling really good and emotional. It has great effective use of the flashback panels and the focus view to leave a strong impact. Like how Takasugi holds Gintoki’s hand to show the comradery, the unbroken friendship. It’s so damn good to see this series back again.

Gintoki can relate to the followers on one thing: not wanting to die. He can understand their wishes because he too wants to live long and enjoy the sensation with his friends. The others have their own wish to meet Shouyo. They want to vent out their frustration, but they may never know how much of a beating they will give until they feel satisfied. Not even eternity would do. Those panel shots with all of them enjoying are sublime. That’s how you do friendship. Those three are the best. The one major downside is the old friend of mine: darkness and it raised death flags.

Katsura spots a rocket launcher and push everyone back to dodge. Only he takes the damage from the impact, weakened enough to slow them down. They then gets trapped by both sides of their pathway, which seems like the end for them. While I didn’t think of that, I was a bit worried on what’s about to happen with Katsura injured. Anything goes and that’s what happens next. The explosions erupt from the wall, essentially saving the three from their certain doom. That’s where the other best part of the series comes in: the characters.

It was clear that it was too much for the three to handle all of the enemy alone, which is why it’s a great time to bring back all other characters to the fray. I like how Shinseigumi orders them to comply and if they don’t, then more power to them, because they would love to show their power. It’s not just them, it’s every character that has been around for a long time. It’s like witnessing Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: Gintama Edition; everyone is here! All it was missing was that theme song from Be Yorozuya Forever. Book it, anime staff!

What makes the scenario even better is how they are reflecting the long grueling journey after being ruled by Amanto for 20 years. They went through hell many times, but the result is paying off greatly. After the war, it made them stronger than ever. It’s no wonder earlier in the arc, it emphasized the growth of the Samurai. No more they will feel fear from them; it’s time to take Earth back. It’s a message that reads, “It’s been a long journey for your favorite characters, but they learn and grow, and when they show the result, the journey ends.” It’s already building for the closure that we have been waiting for.

You can’t do this justice without the beloved main characters. Just when Otae blocks the attack, which by the way is the same shot from the anime preview back in Jump Festa, the two come to save the day. Most importantly, after for so long, they can finally say, “Welcome to the country of Samurai.” The monthly release schedule really pays off for the quality panels like the one with Shinpachi and Kagura. So great to see them again. I got to remind myself how heroine is treated as well as a main character that doesn’t overshadow the protagonist. Yorozuya’s reunion is so close. I can almost taste it.

Characters aren’t great without amusing interactions. Matsudaira and Kondo are cooperating from sky and ground, like the good old time. Despite their political differences, mainly on the marriage, they are great friends. No matter what timeline they’re in, it will always be the Era of Samurai. Hijikata and Sougo work alongside with Shinpachi and Kagura, while she rubs in that Yorozuya is better than Shinseigumi as Sougo denies that claim. Some things never change, but that’s the way we like them.

There is an interesting development regarding with Utsuro. Tendoshu are in the process of gathering the Altana, but they are on the verge of losing their cult. The head leader however is fine with the way things are going. Shouyo’s body is slowly gaining a new heart. That will leave his disciples carrying a spare that wouldn’t destroy Tendoshu’s plan. Now the question comes in: why would the head leader needs to revive Shouyo completely? That’s where things get twisted.

If you have watched the preview from Jump Festa, there was a very strange scene with Utsuro mixed with Tendoshu’s body. It turns out that was true and not only true, but Utsuro has stolen their will. All this time, the plan isn’t for the sake of immortality, but instead, to revive Utsuro under his will. It makes sense considering that they consumed so much blood that they just so happen to control it like it belongs to them. The blood is like a virus, soon it will overpower you and a new mind will be inserted; case in point, Utsuro’s. In short, he has returned. This begs the question. Will Shouyo return as Utsuro with a new heart? It’s quite freaky to see three Utsuros in one setting.

The elevator scene is like a checkpoint for Gintoki and others to cool down and talk for a moment. Katsura does the talking while the other two stay quiet. It’s due to what Katsura said about their people and friends; everyone has grown stronger. They aren’t weak to ask them for a favor, rather fighting to help them. You can say they grew accustomed to be the one helping, not vice versa. Jumping ahead for a bit, Takasugi asks Gintoki for the heart; influenced by Katsura’s words, but not really all bright. They have enemies waiting for them, essentially, this scene become calm before storm.

Shinpachi and Kagura are assisted by Kyuubei and her clan, preventing reinforcements to barge through. It is the series’ way to have certain character to say their words or blessing, starting with her. She wishes to fool around a little longer with Gintoki and others like the good old days. She would be happy if they ruin her marriage interview. How charming.

In the midst of tensed action scene with Gintoki and others at the elevator lobby, Tsukuyo and others fight off the reinforcements to open path for Yorozuya. She gets shot through her leg. Damn. Luckily, Sacchan and Zenzou are there to back her up. Interesting though fitting for Sacchan to encourage Tsukuyo to not to die, unless she is with her lover. Strange use of context about the crotch spot, but the meaning holds the significant value. She’s not planning to die; she will live to see Gintoki again. Sorachi sure knows how to please the pairing fans; I’ll take it. I like Zenzou’s words for him as well. If he doesn’t return, then say goodbye to Jump issues. That’s funny yet heartwarming.

It’s hard to review the segment with great justice with its transition between Gintoki and his friends. It’s worth mentioning because how the scenes greatly complements the segment about what Gintoki has lost and gain. Takasugi wants the heart because he wants him to enjoy the life he can still take back. While that is seriously nice of him, Gintoki’s response is even nicer. He is fine with the way things are, because he doesn’t need to take it back. He got everything there. That includes Takasugi; when they fought alongside, when they fought against each other. That’s Gintoki’s reason to be there; never to lose anything. God, I’m going to miss this series.

The ending is crazy, especially the cliffhanger. Just when we got a teary sentimental scene, shit hits the fan when the explosion erupted by the lobby door. Damn you, Michael Bay! The heart slips out and Katsura is the only guy that can grab it. I was struck when his hand almost reaches it, only to get stabbed by the staff. Damn, that looks bad. Hitsugi sends him down crashing. I don’t know where they landed, but if they are fine more or less, I sense a new battle.

The intensity doesn’t stop as Gintoki trying to hold on the rope, which is ripping his skin. Cringe. Takasugi has to make an opening for them to land, so he jumps towards the door and breaks it, badass style. Wow, that was close. That elevator breakout scene was so damn good. Another scene from Jump Festa happens with Takasugi holding his hand out for Gintoki to grab onto. A couple of panels are used for heartfelt friendship scene as well as tension. It’s all fine and well, until Takasugi’s hand weakens. Tendoshu stabbed him with a sword. That’s where the chapter ends. Dammit, Gorilla…

I know Takasugi is semi-immortal, but the fact is he’s running out of time. If anything, this lessen the time even further. For all we know, this could be his last extra life, so if he were to die again, that’s it. Not to mention, it’s Tendoshu or Utsuro behind him, so the battle will be tough for him, even if not killed. This chapter has set up a death flag for each disciple, one in which has the highest. That’s Takasugi. Will he die here? I honestly don’t know.

This chapter was long but that’s expected for a month worth of content. With that said this was a hell of a return. There was a hilarious parody that this series is known for. There were tons of great action with plenty of fun moments. Characters were stellar as usual with believable motivations and relationships. The art is very solid, worth taking a time off. The ending was jarring with a cliffhanger that can make a person skip a heartbeat. It’s Gintama. I don’t know how many chapter we have left, but I will savor this as long as I can. The next chapter can’t come any sooner.

[lunar-tear]

I hadn't realized you've been re-reading the manga from the start. Is there anything in particular that stands out to you during the re-read? Are there arcs or characters you didn't care as much before that mean more now? Or the other way around even?

Hey! Yeah, I started re-reading because I just missed gintama so much after the latest season ended, followed by the break for the manga.

One thing that I was able to notice right of the bat was just how good Sorachi has become as an artist, even a story teller! His art went through this really beautiful, gradual change and it was such a pleasure to see it happen, because when I was reading it week by week it wasn't that easy to pick up on, you know?

As for the way he writes, of course I can't say much about his Japanese because I don't understand it, but rather I mean how he became much more confident, more bold with his writing. Like in the very beginning it was a bit cliché don't you think? Protag saves someone, goes on to save someone close to him as well, that kind of thing. But later on the story just grew leaps and bounds and it was just very evident that he had become much more confident now that people were genuinely enjoying his work!

Now for Gintama in itself... Here's some things:

- The foreshadowing is brilliantly done. Subtle enough for you to think it's not relevant, yet when you actually look at it again after knowing what takes place it's like wow, how did I not notice that? And the amount of foreshadowing about Shouyou and even the damn Altana plot. Jesus Christ. As early as within the first 60 or so chapters! I would attach screenshots if I could but unfortunately I haven't got any saved.

- I'll be honest, the very first time I came across this series I didn't like Otose (how wrong I was). Now though, I have an indescribable amount of love for her. I don't know how I didn't notice the motherly way in which she spoke of Gintoki.

- Sacchan! Of course I found her annoying at first! I mean when she became her stalker self that is. But now I just absolutely adore her, especially when I consider her role in the s/a arc and onwards.

- Sougo. I always favoured Hijikata over Sougo for the longest time. Of course I love the mayo bastard, but I deeply underestimated Sougo's character. For a while I just saw him as the comic relief character, but god I was so wrong. (And the Mitsuba arc made me cry buckets, as usual)

- The infant strife arc. Of course dadtoki was already canon by then, considering Kagura, but somehow it almost felt like he was wistful. It's very subtle but it's there: he doesn't want anyone to have to suffer like he did, he wants this kid to be in the safe arms of his mother, much like how Shouyou was a father figure for him, gone too soon.

- Beam Saber arc! I don't know why, but I didn't like this arc a lot the first time I read it. Of course it was emotional as hell, but I dunno, I just wasn't feeling the plot of it. But this time round I quite enjoyed it, cried at the sad parts, laughed at the happy parts, sometimes both for the same parts. Even though Hajime-nii was present only for this one arc in the whole series, I felt so terrible when he died because that's just how good Sorachi's writing is. And I was so so proud of Shinpachi.

- Isaburo particularly stands out for me. Of course I haven't gotten to the chapters where he reveals why he was doing what he was doing, but having that knowledge already, things just made much more sense, and were way, way sadder. And of course his alliance with Takasugi became much more understandable.

One thing I absolutely love about Gintama is the fact that Sorachi has managed to build this beautiful kind of continuity that pleasantly surprises you. Who could ever predict that Sadaharu would have such an important role in the final battle? He literally was the reason for the outcome (and god, I miss him so very much). And that's just one of the several instances where something that took place in the first 100 or so chapters made a comeback much later on.

As much as Sorachi mocks himself for being unable to come up with an ending, I think he's done a brilliant job of tying loose ends in a way that truly satisfies the readers. Makes me wonder if, when he started out a particular story, he had already decided it would be important to the plot later on.

As for what you asked about arcs/characters that I may have been impressed by at first but probably don't now-- no, as far as I can remember, I don't think so. I love all the arcs and characters, some more than others obviously, but that's how it's always been. I've grown to appreciate more arcs since I started re-reading, actually.

These are just a couple of things off the top of my head. Honestly, my praise for Sorachi-sensei is unending and I am so, so happy to be able to live in a time when something as phenomenal as Gintama is being made. I've learnt so much from it, I still am. I've been able to find a home within this story-- a place of comfort. And I'll always be so thankful for that.

[citruspeel]

I remembered Sorachi wrote ‘Clean-Up Project 2018’ in one of the chapter covers

Then I got depressed.

I can’t believe he’s really ending Gintama now. He’s just tying up loose ends this year, so to speak.

I thought/wish it’d run forever like Sazae-san. I mean, if Masashi Kishimoto can write/oversee Boruto after ending Naruto, Sorachi can keep on going with Gintama, right?

I don’t know if I can really take it ending. I’ve been reading his past interviews and he said one of the reasons he became a mangaka was that he hated the feeling he got when he watched movies and games - that empty feeling when they ended. He would always want to jump into the world that he had just seen; it ending always made him feel lonely. So he’d write manga so it’ll go on forever. Why end Gintama then, Sorachi? hahaha

Ah, but that exact same feeling is what I’m dreading now. It’s gonna be lonely without the Yorozuya around.

I really do think the series is winding its way to its closure. There are still some loose ends (and weird plot happenings, sure), but they seem to be minor. Not major enough to evolve into another serious arc. We’ve rounded out the ff:

- Utsuro (continuing it this is just really minor now; it’s like 85% of it has been solved)

- a legitimate space war

- Kagura’s origin, background story and conflict (Kamui’s redeemed, his and Umibozu’s conflict has been resolved)

- Takasugi’s origin, background and conflict (redeemed now, maybe 85% too. This terrorism thing doesn’t feel as major as it should be)

- Katsura + Sakamoto’s origins, plus the Joui conflict have been explained

- Shinpachi and Tae’s dojo dreams have been addressed

- Otose, Tatsugorou and Jirocho’s conflict has been resolved

- Every Yoshiwara arc has been closed

- Nobunobu and Shigeshige’s legacy has been protected (Nobunobu’s redemption arc was really good!)

- Shinsengumi’s fate somewhat 75% answered

Out of all the plotholes and characters, the only

thing we seem to be missing is Gintoki’s own origin story. And not just his time with Shoyou - who his family is. He always tugs at my heart whenever he says stuff about family, but he doesn’t know his own. When it comes to his childhood, we’re just shown an image of young Gin sitting on top of corpses on a battlefield.

I hope Sorachi gives us that, too. A more personal final arc - although sometimes I think, since the Silver Soul arc was pretty huge and actually namedrops the title already, which is basically a sign of the end, we’re really heading down endsville.

(My personal theory is that Gin’s half-Amanto or he has Altana too - just something that makes him special. Hence he was also called an Oni like Shoyou was when he was young. Although if he is half-something that sort of takes away from his charm as a human, doesn’t it?)

This is just basically fandom feeling vomit. I really hate this feeling of seeing great stuff end. Huhu.

[radicalrave]

Ok, I'm going to present one of list of most favorite anime/manga/light novel series in mosaic in chronological order and will give reasons why I love series and made it on the list.

Reason being is cuz my tastes have changed over time and some series aged well and some didn't, and you'll see why that is when I give my thoughts and reasons.

However, I will give an honorable mention on here, since it won't show up on here. You'll come to see my patrician tastes as 4chan delicately likes to put it haha (yes, I'm a channer and I love trolling with the kids there hahaha that place is information gold that's real and legit.)

1.) Evangelion: Let's face it, this is like most people from the 90's top selection. Not only is it vintage for being around for 20 years and iconically dark for a dark shounen (boy's) series, it left a major impact on the industry and the world in ways that most people, even I underestimated. Infact, I'd venture out to say that this series has aged perfectly well compared to lots of others during its time period. It has definitely aged far better compared to Cowboy Bebop and Betterman and all of it's contemporary peers in the competition back in the day. Infact, we're a few years ahead of that series now, which is strange cuz most of us probably didnt expect to see life past 2010 and 21 hahaha. As a whole, this series was far better compared to everyone else. Now, admittedly, it was dark and has some themes that provoke good questions for society at the time in terms of "what if's." At the time, you can tell that the director was a major nihilist and didn't like the direction the world was going, and you can basically see that in his work here. I know I don't have much to say about this series and it does sound like a weak biased argument and apologize for that, but in all honesty, it's done one thing that most series in the 90's was capable of doing: Stand well against the test of time. THAT's what made it impressive. Even though lots of stuff in it are very much obsolete and clunky now. I mean... all that clunky stuff... its hard to believe we used to live in an ugly world like that at one point in time.

2.) FLCL: Now, I'll admit, it IS overhyped and overrated. I sometimes still can't see the big deal behind it, but I will say this, for a 6 episode mini series, it's directed well with excellent art direction all around on the topic of growing up and coming of age. Back then, it did look very mature and course, but now that I'm older, it's definitely a kids series which was admittedly a bit too edgy and dark for it's time, but, I think could have done better had it been more balanced out being a bit more colorful and lighter instead of darker.

I suppose at that time when pop punk and me was going around that time, and correct me if I'm wrong here, I believe Japan was going thru an economic crisis at the time, which is probably why there was such a negative foul air over the future and industry of Japan and the world as a whole at the time, politically and economically speaking.

The series can be a bit of a cool watch if you're into that era of time, but I would venture to say it's one of those that I'd definitely like to keep in my library, along with stuff like Super Milk Chan and anything else that popped up at that time. It was progressive in it's own way coming off very gritty and crunchy in it's own sense if you understand what I mean about the rough comic aesthetic that it gave off at that time.

3.) Gurren Lagan: This was one of the last Gainax series before they ended up closing shop, and not to mention, progressed past it's predecessors in being extremely fast paced. I loved the art and direction and it was fast paced that had excellent action scenes and novel epic art. However, my main qualms about this series, is that it should have just been 1 season long. I feel that it failed past the time skip in the last 10 episodes and should have crunched the last episode into episode 13, therefore, preserving and making it a quality series holistically instead of being watered down and suffering overtime like Death Note did after volume 7 when L died. In Bakuman, you can tell that Ohba and Obata (Ashirogi Muto) when they made their (Death Note; It's obvious people) that they wanted to end it there to preserve its quality as an art as a whole so that it doesnt suffer, unfortunately, the editorial and the shuisa jump magazine pushed for it, which is why we got a weird asspull with Mello and Near after, and you can see how they wanted to end Death Note with this.)

Now, Gurren Lagan, I liked the direction, it was ok, but it also had some misses too over time. It wasnt perfect, but the direction was fresh for it's time. However... personally speaking, if I were to replace this with another series that deserves an honorable mention, and it's directed by one of my current favorite directors in the industry right now, it's Re: Cutie Honey, based on Go Nagai's manga back in the 70's as one of the first and original magical girls to come and pop up with it's modern digital groovy colorful and psychedelic disco aesthetic. I really loved the direction and way it came out and would love to endorse how much I love the direction behind these kinds of aesthetics in anime and manga. Personally, I'd like to see both modern and old school and see how they age 10-30 years from now, just like alot of series I grew up with over the yeras. This however, is NOW 10 years old and remember when it first came out and the internet and DA was all big about it with Ryoko and all that, but I admit that it was a bit overhyped, I like it, it was a bit sometimes edgy and weird, the weird was ok, edgy, at least it wasnt but it would have been better had it been toned down even with coolness and make it more cartoonier and it would have definitely succeeded. The final fight scene in the series is the best and loved it and wished that it ended sooner than it did, then the series would have ended perfectly. The last 10 episodes of that season was watered down, the plot was weakened and honestly wasnt a big fan after that. It's one of those 7/10 that could have been a 9/10 in my book.

4.) Sayonara Zetsubou Sensei: THIS. THIS SERIES IS BY FAR THE BEST THAT HAS CAME OUT IN THE PAST 3 DECADES! What's frustrating is that it was poorly marketed, underrated and poorly localized. It is by far one of the best directed anime series of all time that I haven't seen been topped off or progressed in yeras. The closes to it is the Monogatari series which is based off the light novel series and directed by the same director who took up the project. You can tell by the direction with the slides and the timing of the scene changes. Zetsubou however was fresh, creative for it's time and progressive and to this day, I still consider to be and supposed to be the future of anime and manga.

Based off the manga series by iconic mangaka Koji Kumeta, Kumeta was one of those guys who taught me how important critical tone and dialogue is when it comes to witty batter and writing when it comes to screenplay, writing and manga and the guy lets his frustrations out with gusto. I haven't seen anyone come as close to how good this guy is as a writer other than Sorachi of Gintama fame, who is also one of my top and favorite mangaka of all time. As a quality series as a whole, I also put it up there with Death Note, but much higher. I like his simplistic art style that he has adopted past his earlier works and the art style that changes over time that sticks out and can tell, it's his. and both the writing and the art compliment each other well perfectly with excellent satirical critical tones. You can tell that his writing style is pervasive in Joshiraku, Impatient Count and the Time Thief and toned down in his latest work Kakushigoto. (Yes, I'm a huge fan of this guy who is underrated and not well known and honestly wish he would get better credit than he currently deserves and is by far one of the best creative driving forces in the industry I have ever come across.)

What makes this series tick out and perfect art the gags and the dark truth satirical tones this series takes. The characters are original and fresh and very likable, memorable and have a charm that makes them attractive. Basically, the way he designed them holistically is far better compared to anything that Akamatsu of Love Hina and Negima has done and basically executes his work with excellent precision. The topics the teacher brings up are interesting and basically rags on everything that annoys him as he and his students debate about life topics in and out of school. You can say its like a modern high school version of charlie brown peanuts with a bit of a Tim Burton feel to it, but not as macabre and also somewhat cute. I like how he questions politics and law as well in this work of his and perfectly concludes it with 300 chapters in 30 volumes with a pretty comical yet grim ending that people will come to remember as a holistically quality work worth keeping and remembering for the years to come. This ended about roughly 5 years ago, so it has been around for quite a while the past 12 years and has done a good job aging for that generation of people who were around for the Haruhi and Lucky Star hype back then. This one is easily a 9 or 10/10, cuz its that good.

Localizing may be tough, but its best to appreciate it for what it is. Its still never came over here considering how good it was back then, but I can still see it as future of anime kind of things.

5.) Tatami Galaxy: Now this one is admittedly a bit pretentious with being known as a fast talking anime series for an older audience set in a university setting. I love the art direction, but the theme is kind of redundant, but it can be fun to watch. It's based off a light novel series which apparently gets alot of positive critical attention overseas, but the direction for the anime, you can say that its equivalent to the speed of the voices for the dubbing of Speed Racer back then. Having seen Speed Racer in it's original intended language, I love it far more and it's more natural and relaxed and presented in the way that it was meant to be and honestly, I loved it.

This however, is one of those ones if you want an articulate post modern art college watch and want to kick back and relax, as it can be somewhat confusing as he goes back in time alot and redoes things with every episode till the last episode. You can equate it to that of Haruhi's 2nd season of the Endless 8 arc where the same exact thing except presented differently in each episode is done, but this was better, and was probably one of the biggest trolls in anime history of all time. It CAN be pretentious but it isn't completely per se either.

6.) Panty and Stocking with Garterbelt: OK... I lied... THIS is one of the best progressive anime series with best art direction of all time. It's very western animation influenced in western cartoon format and very colorful. To me, THIS is what I'd still consider and call the future of anime and still should be looked at as such. Here are reasons why. It's simple, not in depth or edgy and dark, but it was just completely perfect all around to the point that it seriously does deserver a 10/10 in my book. Hands down.

Lasting only one season with a trolling cliffhanger, it is one of the best episodic series I have come to watch and enjoy as an anime series of all time and wish that more anime would adopt the kind of aesthetic this series brought to the table. Aside from probably being the LAST Gainax series before the director went on to form Trigger the upcoming years with Kill la Kill, Kiznaiver and currently airing Little Witch Academia, it stood out for it's colorful art direction and cartoony feel that it had which I feel most anime SHOULD have. Despite the history of anime and manga being heavily western influenced by Disney and the country's earliest calligraphy and erotic paintings and shunga back in the pre modern times.

Now, it IS raunchy and not for kids, so let me emphasize when I say that when you watch the dubs or the original with liberal subs, it can be taken out of context at times, but still... it is very raunchy and not really kid friendly, the context in its original language is admittedly very crude, but not as crude as the liberals and americans tend to portray it here theatrically in its direction. Infact, it's so Raunchy, Adult Swim CAN'T air it here in the states, considering that AS is mostly for kids and teens in the day and age and not really adult shows. I've seen adult series and honestly, alot of what I posted aren't considered as such, This one is more like teens and older adult with childish and kid like theatrics and appeal which is what I really like about it. So... its probability for one of those extremely leftist liberal families that are cool with sitting with their kids and educating and explaining content to their kid with guidance so they can be mature NOT to do or say those things that is presented on here, but realistically, the statical odds of things like that are extremely small to most likely less than 1%.

Admittedly, it DOES need a 2nd season and there is a following and demand for it, considering the way it had ended 7 years ago in Christmas of 2010. It's one of my favorite art directions at the time for cool stuff like Danganronpa, No More Heroes or Mad World, lots of games with colorful comic noir aesthetics like that and is honestly at the top of my list as one of the best landmarking and progressive anime series of this decade that to this day, STILL hasn't been topped off at all. It's easily a 10/10 in my book, so do watch with discretion.

7.) Eccentric Family: This one, I caught this one a bit late. This is from the same writer of the Tatami Galaxy Novel series and illustrated by Koji Kumeta of Zetsubou Sensei fame, so you can see I have a bit of my biases of my favorite people in the industry who team up and work together on different projects, this is one of them.

The plot is very simple and not complex and its not deep or edgy. It's quirky and fun with some colorful playful humor with alot of Japanese folktale lore presented in modern day japan. This series is very reminiscent to that of Paranoia Agent and has features that are similar to it, though unfortunately Satoshi Kon hasn't been with us since his passing in 2010. What's great about this is that a 2nd season has been green lit this year and will be airing this year, so you will be on time to hop on and enjoy the ride with the rest of us on this fun and quirky ride of tanukis and tengu.

8.) Kill la Kill: I'm sorry but I'm majorly biased cuz I love Ryuko chan and would love to wife her as my waifu obviously. But joking aside:

Kill la Kill is currently Trigger's most popular magnus opus in the industry right now and one of their earliest works. They have put out some stuff before they put this one out. They later ended up putting out Space Patrol Luluco and Kiznaiver at the same time last year which both performed well, but never outshined Kill la Kill to this day and so far, Little Witch Academia with a few OVAs the past few years and currently airing is expected to be the next big magnus opus that will outshine it. I can see it and like how kid friendly it is and it can't, mostly for the semi nudity and side boob that it shows. Not that that's a problem, but lots of conservatives will have a problem with it and can lose an audience because of things like that when marketed and presented to the public.

It's one of the first project after the director formed it after working on Panty and Stocking and did other shorts such as Sex, Violence and Machspeed, which is a knockoff of Panty and Stocking with a different comic noir aesthetic and were cameoed in Space Patrol Luluco along with Sucy from Little Witch Academia.

This series is a semi kids series and love it and would love to own the anime BDs for sure. There are subtle hints of politics in this series in terms of life fiber and alliances in the series. It's NOT the best but its decent and ok and not as progressive or articulate compared to the others I have mentioned on here, and had it tried to be progressive in the timeline trying to progress past them as a quality art, it would have definitely succeeded as a 10/10 and mostly gets roughly an 8 or 7 out of 10. 8 cuz I'm being nice and love Ryuko, but thats not an excuse or reason to give it an extra point.

The plot was simple, it wasnt that deep or edgy or dark, its somewhat colorful and cartoony is what I like about it and its not raunchy or explicit showing nipples or anything, its simple. It can be seen as for adults and older teens, its basically a coming of age for girls outgrowing their high school years and questions the nature of humans in society.

It can be seen for kids, but mostly kids at the age of 10, but I can see it definitely see it being coarse. Now, it's not as course and raunchy and tantalizing compared to To Love Ru which is indeed raunchy in a good light and thankfully not disgusting, but there's easter eggs that you'll see in the art and expression of the series where you'll see exposed areas in the reflection of the series that bypasses the censorship laws in japan for manga and anime on tv to the point that Yabuki has been taken to court a few times because of upset parents. Basically, he would literally draw in very subtle stuff like a vagina and clitoris in the reflections in the art and would be easily overlooked and most people even editorial wouldn't notice but bypassed censorship laws that not even hentai artists could do. I remember a documentary of Anthony Bourdain's No Reservations when he went to Japan and sat with the mangaka who invented the tentacle rape to bypass Japanese censorship laws because of a loophole he noticed and exploited.

Same here, but he used reflections instead of blatant exposure. So if you read the series, if you look at water drops, metal reflectors or bubbles and mirrors, you will definitely be seeing vagina, penises and clitoris that you aren't allowed to be seeing and are outlawed on Japanese media but only because its bypassed censorship laws by exploiting a loophole found. This was noticed in To Love Ru Darkness, and the story behind it was kind of sad and understandable as Yabuki went thru a divorce with his wife who caused him trouble and left him being a single parent, so it was in a sense of him retaliating and venting off his anger and frustration off of society and pushed the border which gave him the name (madman yabuki.) He is known for his earlier work Black Cat which ended prematurely on 20 volumes last decade and is the main artist and collaborates with the writer of the series. But is known to be raunchy and cleanly tantalizingly provocative for sure.

So there is debate, its questionable, its hard to categorize and tell at times (sorry, psychology talk here) but its definitely memorable for Ryuko and the trigger studio for putting another quality series out there. Personally, had the plot, direction and writing been better with better art direction all round in being progressive, it could have easily gotten a 10/10 in presenting something in a way that's unique and in a way that's yet to have been done before, there aren't much annoying tropes which I liked about it, but still, had they done better research, worked harder and didnt half assed it and outperformed, I would definitely have been raving about it for yeras to come and age well to landmark and progress the timeline of the industry's history.

9.) Last but not least, SPACE DANDY: I LOVE THIS SERIES. IT's colorful, brilliant, hip and amazing all around and definitely Watanabe's best work as an anime director the past 20 years. This series definitely outshines any work he's done with Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo combined by giving it a colorful and quirky cartoony feel and making it enjoyable and fun to watch that's not dark, but it's unique and experimental in the story telling models and style of series for what it was. Rather, it wasn't episodic, but there was lots of academic themes in science and philosophy that are mentioned alot that surpasses sci fi in the past which is WHY it's currently his best work, It's brilliant touching up on topics such as physics and mathematics, the pure sciences and talks about stuff such as different dimension, time travel, and the like and he does it in such a way that its excecuted perfectly and enjoyable to watch all around as a holistic watch. Over time, Ic an see it aging well for the next 10-15 yeras, depending on how society, literature, thought and technology goes and progresses over time. Its definitely watanabes best and creative work, even though he has experimented and messed with mixing things up with different cultures and time periods, this however, was not so much as by the book, but he takes that and applies it and get creative and makes it better and doesnt try too hard like he did in the past, but keeps it simple. THAT shows true mastery. Its similar to that of Ashirogi Muto's current project Platinum End. By the book, but applied and creative past that, and that's exactly what Dandy did. Though, his work after Dandy; Terror in Resonance, was his weakest and bad project and waste of funding since it was a culmination of everything that happened the past 2 decades all rolled up in one and dont consider it creative or great at all in all honest and one of his weakest efforts as a director.

I enjoy it far more than bebop, bebop wasnt as great as I got older, mostly because I realized that Spike was a loser asshole who basically had an affair with someone else's woman and basically caused a shit storm over selfish ambition and in all honesty, dont consider him cool in the least, but rather, just a complete fucking asshole who thinks he's cool when he won't admit it when in all honesty, he's really the bad guy in all this and all this plot would have been avoided, had he not been such a complete fucking prick (yeah, school teaches you to think very differently.) Dandy on the other hand may be a loser, but he's a loser with a good heart and good ambitions whose kind of like Gintoki, not as good or cool, but he has his own charm which is what makes him great. Dandy is indeed, one of the better works of his career and catalogue and very proud to say that this is something that I'd own in my library on BD for sure. It's tough to give this a 9 or 10 out of 10. I'd say 9.5, but for the sake of rounding off and keeping it simple and as to how much I liked it and trying my best NOT to be biased, I'll just be lazy and keep it simple and say that this series deserves a 10/10 for not just being what I mentioned earlier, but because this series offers alot of variety and diversity like Bakuman did, and you can tell that Watanabe experimented and exercised alot of new things and tried many many things that made this series so great. It's down to earth, kept simple, fun, colorful and enjoyable and definitely one of those realistic satire that did question and bring up things in today's societal issues.

My advice, don't get put off by Boobies which is like Hooters, keep it simple and don't get too deep or complex about it, thats where you go wrong already for critical analysis, keep it simple and say that it also keeps in touch with reality when it comes to human nature and the true nature of the world all around us that the truth is, nobody really knows anything at all in a socially constructed society that we all in this day and age live in consciously and unconsciously. That's what makes it a very great series in general. I'd consider it a family friendly series which is why I give it a 10/10. It's not disgusting, provocatively grotesque and raunchy, but very clean, fun, comical and enjoyable for ALL ages. No matter what culture or where you're from.

10.) Honorable Mention.

OK, I'm getting tired, but this one HAD to be mentioned cuz it's really good and deserves a mention:

Monogatari Series. I had a hard time choosing between this and Eccentric Family. Both are not well known and obscure, but... I decided to give it to Eccentric, because its not as popular, so it was hard to choose between the two.

Based on a currently ongoing and popular Light Novel series, the series follows around young Arrarragi, who basically becomes a half vampire after getting bit by one. What makes this series stick out is the dialogue and relationships he has. There's lots of drama and interaction but done in the intelligent and pretentious way. Not as pretentious as Tatami Galaxy, but you can tell it can be.

It is directed by the same guy who directed the Zetsubou Sensei anime, so you can tell with the slides and screens and timing the series has with it's own unique style and aesthetic. Now, what I really love about this series is the girls he talks to, their curses and the art direction. It's beautiful. I love how articulate and artsy it can be and you can tell its pretentious, but its not annoying or smug about it. It tries to keep it simple, but some characters are alike that. I'm a huge fan of the series, I love how it's progressing and indecisive it can be. Its got its own feel but can be cartoony and you can tell what references they refer to.

I love this series alot, so far, it's got a good 7 or 8 out of 10 from me. I'd definitely like to buy the novels and books if localized, but its definitely one of those honorable mentions that needs to be put out there cuz of how good it is and the staff involved in the project behind it and really enjoy it for what it is. Its good art watch if you want something progressive. It is somewhat progressive but still doesnt top off zetsubou sensei, its kind of the same but more artsy... they're both artsy... but int heir own way and comes later, but in my opinion not as good, but its still good and doesnt lack. I really love the dialogue and interaction in this which is what makes it enjioyable to watch.

And that's it... its alot but I will post more later. I will post a favorite of favorite manga/anime adaptations. It'll be stuff like One Piece, Gintama, Death Note, Bakuman, Rurouni Kenshin, My Hero Academia, D. Gray Man, Assassination Classroom, Hunter x Hunter, FMA, Yuyu Hakusho and Embalming: Another tale of Frankenstein. They're mostly Jump series as you can tell, but I like them alot and enjoy them a great deal and will give my thoughts and opinions of them later on. Thanks all.

[mariaantonnietta]

So, I’m finally caught up with Gintama!!

Yeah!, you see, I had watched to the end of the Farewell Shinsengumi arc, so I was three seasons behind, but a few days ago I finished the anime! So, I really overcomed with feels for this series I had followed for a while. 

And well, because of that I realised there is something about the Shogun Assasination arc that I needed to talk about, it is a bit late I know, but I cannot stop thinking about it, so I had to write it out.   

So, after this intro,  below the cut, Shogun Assasination arc and Farewell Shinsengumi arc spoilers,  do not read if you have not finished that point.

Okay, now that we are here, this is not a deep analysis (I think), but something more of a personal thing. 

 Gintama makes parodies and references to multiple shows in daily episodes. and a lot have also pointed out that the preimse has a lot of similarities with Rurouni Kenshin (A lot of this is because they are based on the same period...or at least the same war, so they are both borrowing from history, but there are elements like Shiroyasha being reminicent of the Battosai name, that are references, even if it not called out like the mayority).

And, something I have always though that I not seen anyone say is that the terrible decision Gintoki had to face is a direct reference to HunterxHunter.

Maybe not, saying that is a reference when it handles a question/issue that complicated doen’t sound right, I think that kind of decision  is a wider issue than something that is belonging uniquely of a series, but my mind, when I saw Gintoki having to choose between his master and his friends,  inmediatly made this connection, so even if it was not intentional from Sorachi, I still want to talk about it.

The reference comes from the first chapters of the series, so it is easy to miss, but when I watched the 1999 anime as a kid it was a haunting  scene that let me thinking, and that stuck with me to this day. It is the town of decisions episode.

Or so I had it tagged in my mind until I checked and apparently is not called that?, well, the 4 ep of the 1999 edition, and it is in the 2011 version and the manga too. It is a pre-selection of candidates from the hunter exam. In this, the quiz lady ask a question to our protagonist to answer:

“ If you could only save your son or yout daughter, who would you choose? “

All worthy candidates were asked similar questions, and the correct answer was to remain silent, as there is not good answer to that question.

The kicker comes when after passing the exam, Gon (the protagonist) is still mumbling about the question. Why?, because, what if it is not an exam...what if they really have to face against this situation? 

That answer hit his companions and small me like a rock. That was the exam purpose, but I really did not know what I would do. It was a chilling thought.

I also believed that this situation would hit the HxH characters at some point in the future, but in my expirience that did not come to pass (yet). It is not necessary, as the purpose of manifest the posibility was all that the author wanted to convey. and it did it well, but it was such an interesting concept.

And I deeply grateful that the gorilla just, took this concept and decided,” yes, this will be my protagonist backstory centric theme “ and just developed so many branches and consequences  of making this decision (and it is not only in this arc, in the shinigami arc it was as important, and in some short arcs too, I would say it is a central theme in the manga) I love how it shaped the three of Gintoki, Katsura and Takasugi (and how complicated their relashionship is).

 I personally love Takasugi damming their weakness, as when my kid self was thinking about this question, the only remotely answer that I could find was to grow strong enought to be able to portect both the things I loved, to no get in this situation in the first place. 

And I love how Gintoki later says, that he wanted to protect both the things he wanted but it was the same as destroying both.

(a bit out of topic , but this has to do with other theme of the series and GIntoki, of promises. GIntoki did the best he could to maintain both his promises, even when they contradicted each other. Too many things must be passing by Gintoki’s mind when he made that decision, but when he could not choose  too protect both his friends and his master, he choose to protect his master soul, that is what his master told him was the most important thing to protect, thus actually protecting his master. You can say he did not break any promises, even though he himself will not fully believe it, And Takasugi who was there of course knows all of this but just, cannot deal with it, not with his suffering or GIntoki’s. Zura was also really afected but he handles it better (may be a big factor in why he became an air-head) and that, well sorry but it is so  easy to ramble about this series, I love it.  )

So, I wanted to comment that it may be a reference to HxH, but even if it is  or it is not, I think what I really wanted to say is, that I am deeply grateful Sorachi took an theme that shook me so much and expanded it so thoughtfully. And really impressed, and I love this series. 

[sparda3g]

Gintama Chapter 683 Review

The past chapters have been nothing but emotional and somewhat dreary. While that is not a bad thing, it was concerning to believe the end for Joui 3 won’t be delightful, especially one with a potential death. Gintoki and Takasugi are back in Edo, so begin the buildup for a reunion. This chapter continues the trend of ominous tone, but once more goes back to the fun and humorous side that it was needed.

Takasugi has been really impressive in this arc so far. Rather than him showing you why, this time it lets others speak. It’s reassuring that Kiheitai is heading to Edo as well, so the reunion in one setting is definitely going to be very pleasant. That said Matako shows an act of maturity. Rather following him like a typical fan girl, she is conflicted on what to do.

Sorachi inserted the captain who took Gintoki and Takasugi to Edo on his ship to exploit the reason for Matako’s pondering. It’s writing technique to have one character’s line indirectly share with another from afar. Basically, Takasugi is more of a genuine good person this time. Despite the dark history that the captain knew about, he can’t help but felt the need to help him from his determination. It’s no wonder they were portrayed like good comrades.

The chapter wants to point out that with Takasugi being on good term, he and Gintoki never look so alive like best friends finally going on a journey that they have dreamt since school days. Plenty of series tends to showcase the friendship of two rivals. Some are good to believe and some are bad with its hammering. This one is fortunately good because of the past developments and interactions that you can buy in easily. It’s not out of nowhere, it’s organic as it can get.

It’s a warm feeling since we know Takasugi’s death clock is ticking rapidly. It’s sadder with Matako noting that he has never looked so happy in her time with him. After the captain’s speech, she backs up his claim about the two being best friends and not in for a duty. She doesn’t know if she doesn’t want to interfere or she wants to continue to watch him enjoying his remaining life. I don’t think she knows he’s dying, but regardless, it’s mature of her to think this way, yet sad to know all of this should have happened a long time ago.

I really like the sightseeing from Gintoki, clearly missed his home. The foundation between him and everyone is so incredible, any reunion will put a smile on my face. Well, besides one, we will get to that soon. The town isn’t done fixing, but it looks like certain areas are going to be more city-like than before. It’s a bit charming comparison to him and a brat of returning home. Everyone will eventually forgive.

Before going forward with the exploration, the chapter shifts to where Tendoshu are discussing with Hitsugi. I knew it was him under that casted mask and missing limbs. That said the information that the Tendoshu spout isn’t new, but the point is how manipulative and control they have against him; practically made him into their slave. They even go far as insulting him while he was still there, yet they know and proceed to do so. What a bunch of assholes.

I don’t know the plan is to have Naraku backstab them one day, but that would be some hell of an enemy of my enemy is my friend scenario. Hitsugi is doing it for his beloved master. He too seek for immortality, but that is more down the line of contribution than selfish reason. The stare is probably foreshadow, but we have to wait and see where the road lies ahead.

As for Tendoshu, they’re the worst since they have things in control as they love to have. There’s an elaborated reason for them seeking to take Altana from Edo. It’s basically Plan B in which they would take it and somehow create a replicated heart. They’re pretty much power hungry. The best part is they are getting their revenge against Utsuro after last time, so the table has turned. Remarkable to make me feel bad for him; well, the Shoyo part of him at least.

Another new info is the location of the Tengenism’s temple. It’s not even on Earth, rather floating in space since it’s a moving temple Kuyou. It’s practically a giant ship, but it’s worth noting because it’s where they keep Utsuro’s body. I don’t know if that would be the final battle setting, but it’s the only way to get the job done. That or somehow it will go down on Earth. Why is it in space? Because they have huge ego when they designed the ship with the mindset of looking down on Earth. Is it wrong to hope for crash and burn?

Takasugi has been a swell guy. He even offer Gintoki a time alone to catch up with his friends. Gintoki tries to avoid the opportunity with a reasonable argument that would cause a stir. Could you imagine if your hero decide to save a killer? Naruto could work, but in this series, no. Takasugi got him good with a response that exposed him. Gintoki is afraid of being conflicted on his decision because if he reunites with Yorozuya, he will start thinking as a guy who must cleanse evil. It’s challenging and I’m loving it. I seriously hope Sorachi can deliver the message profoundly.

After that, the chapter or series in general decides to go back to the humorous side and it’s worth it. As usual, it’s hilarious with the shenanigans with Hijikata and Yamazaki; oh sorry, Mobcop. It’s a great timing to reference Devilman since Gintoki is on the verge to lose his sanity. The image with him holding the glasses kills me. Even Sorachi is aware of the potential dark ending. Oddly enough, if Devilman Crybaby is the audience’s first introduction to the franchise, consider it a major spoiler.

I also got a good laugh at the explanation of how they followed Gintoki. Mobcop was supposed to be flying, which is why Hijikata looked hype when boarding on him. Too bad his gas apparently ran out, so they only latch on the boat underwater. I’m here thinking, “Wouldn’t Hijikata drown by that point?” Well, he was close to death at least five times. Mobcop’s fuel is anpan, which is a funny and clever reference to Robocop in which uses baby food. Although, he needs a specific type alas fine-grained bean paste, so apparently, he’s pretty picky.

After a good comedy, the chapter revert back to a serious tone, this time with Hijikata. He isn’t sure if Gintoki is doing something evil, which technically he is for now, but if he can confirm, then he will kill him. I thought it was touching for he reacted like he doesn’t want to say it but if it comes to it, then it must be done. You can tell how much he does care about him as a friend.

To make it more emotional, he reminds Mobcop the code of Shinseigumi, but also reflect that it’s the same group that Gintoki has saved. It would be a damn sad ending if it all goes to that route. Mobcop gives him a reality check of what’s no longer there, but Hijikata subtly tell him to shut up. I so can’t wait for a reunion. With those two back in Edo, it’s only matter of time.

We are back with more comedy and it’s so funny. After the heartfelt moment, the follow-up breaks away from the dreary mood and embark whacky plan in motion. Gintoki and Takasugi go their separate way, so normally, two against two would mean one take on one. Not for Mobcop; he literally split up to chase both respectively. Yes, it’s very normal for citizens to split from the waist down. Unless it’s Tokyo Ghoul.

I really like how Sorachi managed to freshen up the dynamic between him and Hijikata; this is why the comedy doesn’t get old. I like how Hijikata talks about what anpan he’s going to get for him but of course, each time he says it, it’s only a trolling remark. It’s only because Mobcop keeps screwing up. After being told to blend in, the most logic thing to do is disguise with the identity of another. Apparently, Hijikata has a twin brother now.

The dumb part about it is how Mobcop is pretty much saying that Hijikata’s job is only to get the anpan for him. Even when disguised as him, he was going to grab one, completely disregard the main target. I couldn’t stop laughing at the stupidity. It only breaks the trend once Mobcop acts natural and by his definition, it means no clothes, all free. That’s when Hijikata finally stop trolling and actually got the anpan for him, so he can stop humiliating him. Fan girls must be stoked.

The last couple of pages are hilarious. Gintoki almost caught them but they somehow blend in with the store ads, acting like mannequin. Mobcop exposes more than enough if you get what I mean. Somehow, it works unless Gintoki is lying, which I can definitely believe. Otherwise, he’s easily fooled. What got me laughing so much is after he left, it appears things are secured, but shortly after, he returns with a panic look. He buys an underwear, wears it over his head, and all the sudden, he’s tagging along with others in disguising. Why? Because Otae appears. Need I say more? Hijikata’s reaction cracks me up.

This was a pretty amusing chapter with a nice change of pace with its humor. The buildup to the next and most likely the last mission has been engaging with conflicting personal issue. The driving theme of making a choice appeals me and it has me very curious. The artwork is clean and the humorous tone delivered with laughable sequences. The cliffhanger was amusing. I don’t know if I want him to get caught, but if there’s one thing that hasn’t changed, it’s the fear of a gorilla. I mean Otae…

[sparda3g]

Gintama Chapter 675 Review

After the fans practiced the feel of no Gintama for a week, we are back with a new chapter that thankfully didn’t give us a major brain damage. Instead, we got what we expected from our normal prediction with a few new twists that is best to say that we are going to be here for a long time. I’m not going to complain; more Gintama for us. Seriously, this chapter increases my interest with its setting and more questions that have me intrigued to follow.

There was a brief feeling of uncertainty in the first scene with some guy in a Mafia suit because well, I was scarred from Kanna’s reveal. It was building up to his reveal like he was going to be someone we believe we know who he is, only to troll us. Luckily, the man behind the suit is in fact Sougo, only now he has his own gang. The good news is Sougo is back. The bad news is Sougo is back.

Interestingly though maybe not surprising, he attacks Shinpachi and the kids like they’re his target, even though it is Katsura that they should target at. I got to credit Shinpachi for dodging those bullets swiftly as well as protecting Tamako. It’s worth noting that Kanna did her own saving, so the Yato bloodline is an amazing perk for kids. It’s great to see Sougo and of course, he didn’t die. That would have killed fans. His disappearance remains unanswered; at least until after the next scene.

The gag scene with an awful drawing of Takasugi is hilarious. This has to be a reference to One Piece gag scene; only this one has its own way to bring in the laughter. Gintoki either can’t draw a person accurately or he’s trolling hard, he does go around asking for help to find him. The best part is where he found a guy with the same look as the picture and yet, he bad mouths it like it’s not his business.

What’s funnier is his family has the same face but pay no mind that they’re identical. It made it better that it went casually and never really point out the obvious from anyone. I got a good laugh from that small scene. Eventually, Gintoki does find Takasugi in a feud with strangers. I would have thought he was going to show more sinister vibe of his to gives us more insight of his agenda. Nope. It wasn’t him.

I laughed so much at the reveal because it’s Takechi behind the disguise, yet I should have known better. The buildup was the guy bashing him about women being disappointed; somehow I missed that cue. The running gag never fails to make me laugh. Gintoki just pummel him like he is going to finish him off where the War failed to do so.

Once Matako shows up, I was back to focusing on the potential drama for we finally see Kiheitai in the scene again. I was ready for a serious talk with them since Gintoki did encounter Takasugi. But nope, Gintoki got another serious question in mind. He was very curious of Matako, but not actual her, rather her movie counterpart.

Apparently, there was “something” from her towards Shinpachi in the live-action, which is funny because I have the blu-ray copy and I haven’t seen it as of this time of writing. After what Gintoki said, I’m pretty curious now. There’s a good innuendo joke that thankfully the note was written to understand completely. The joke is just him being him but in a funny way. What a way to break the serious moment there.

The chapter shifts back to Shinpachi and his more or less battle against Sougo. He does pretty well for evading all of his attack, so that’s a good progress. He doesn’t fight back because that’s not his intention, which I respect that. Sougo does want to test out his strength after two years for entertainment purposes. Well, that’s one hell of a way to do so.

Perhaps the most interesting aspect is the new insight of the current world that really screams for this arc to be lengthy. Sougo’s “death” is only addressed as a metaphor because realistically, they felt cheated from this world. It’s revealed that the Mafia is practically Shinsengumi; even Saitou is there without a mask. It’s rather clever for Sorachi to somehow made Sougo as the leader without dealing with the ranking within Shinsengumi.

What compelled me is what Sougo said about why he left or “died.” The New Government has been controlling the new state of the world behind the scene and when you look over the past chapters, it really does feel like it’s all been a farce. I’m very impressed that Sorachi didn’t go with the typical route of war ending equals happy ending. Tell me, when was the last time the war aftermath doesn’t result to all peace, no problem?

I find this direction very appealing because not only it is going to be on a personal level than the War portion, but it went with a realistic route of not everything would result happiness. Utsuro wasn’t wrong when he said that life will have many hardship and suffering even without him. This revelation made his words truthful; making a villain credible is worth admiring. Now I really want to know how this would be resolved. This also could connect to the last part of this chapter.

It is funny that despite some truthful words about the lies and conspiracy from the New Government, Sougo has created a new organization that surely doesn’t scream evil. If anything, without the law of Shinsengumi, let alone in general, he is now free to be as sinister as he wants to be. Hell, he’s looking more like the main final villain of the arc; that’s how much darkness he’s showing. There must be more to his agenda behind this Mafia thingy, but right now, he’s a savage beast that wants to kill.

Maybe it’s because of the design, but Kanna is adorable here yet she was being rather thoughtful and taunting in a way towards Sougo. She didn’t feel any bloodlust from him at all, so she didn’t get what’s dangerous about that. Wow, that is some fighting words you’re spouting. Sougo swings his sword at her, but she’s taunting him further while standing on his sword. Sorachi knows how to make a kickass child.

For what it’s worth, the action is pretty neat for what it is. The artwork is solid with choreograph of evasive maneuvers. Kanna was easily dodging his move and even called him a disappointment. She must have motivated him to fight at his best for being reminded of Kagura. Another interesting piece is Sougo dropping another mystery by mentioning “other.” It appears that Katsura won’t be the only target and whoever other is it could be a sign of a real focus coming in play. I’m really absorbed with this new plot.

It’s an appealing approach to have two focuses going at once and it does feel like both are slowly tying-in together. It ends with Gintoki being sincere and somewhat protective for Takasugi. I do like the connection from the last arc with Kiheitai never dissolved; only gone away for a moment. I do hope they reunite to shed the light on why Takasugi left. It’s a bit eerie for Gintoki to not call him living.

The most touching scene is when Gintoki defends Takasugi and it’s not only because of his defense. Despite the hidden feelings behind Takasugi’s action, Gintoki understands his motive or at least has the best idea on why he split up and tries to attract no one’s interest. It’s obvious that he’s trying his way to cleanse his past; it’s just hard to understand his action and why that path.

What really stuck me is not only Gintoki was defending him in a way; he’s actually speaking from his heart because he can relate to him. By that, I mean splitting up from his family. When he reminds himself from his farewell to Yorozuya, there’s that sense of possible regret or action that he must take care of without others to be involved. It’s a past that they feel that the present should not intervene for it is their own personal demon they must cleanse for good.

I seriously love where this is going. We have Shinpachi who is struggling to move forward to a new path while Gintoki is struggling to move forward from his past. That subtle expression of him believing their loved ones stopping them would be the best option speaks volume of his feelings. Two years and they got no real progress in their life. At least Kagura got a child. But seriously, it’s only matter of time for her coming in to bring the balance and hopefully, the payoff will be the best that any series could offer me right now.

The ending is interesting because Gintoki is under attack. Honestly, I thought it was just a one-time moment with Hijikata’s men, but this surprised me that he’s really being targeted. The only question is who. I am grasping the feeling that the New Government may want to wipe him out because maybe we are back to the period before Amanto’s Invasion.

This was a pretty compelling chapter to read with a good amount of comedy moments. It’s good to see Sougo back in action, despite being even more devilish. The art is clean and the comedy is well delivered. The buildup for this arc is getting really interesting. The personal scene with Gintoki is touching and sincere.  I feel that this is going to be a real personal arc and honestly, that’s the best option to end the series with.